Respiratory Therapist

Skills:

Associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy (Bachelor’s preferred), ICU Experience, Non-Invasive Ventilation, Mechanical Ventilation, Pulmonary Function Testing, CPAP/BiPAP Management, Airway Management, Continuous Monitoring,Job TitleRespiratory Therapist - Intensive Care Unit (ICU)DepartmentCritical Care / Adult ICU / [Specify Unit]Reports ToICU Nurse Manager / Director of Respiratory Therapy

Job Summary

The ICU Respiratory Therapist provides advanced respiratory care to critically ill patients, including mechanical ventilation, airway management, ECMO support, and emergency interventions. Works collaboratively with intensivists, nurses, and perfusionists to ensure optimal oxygenation and ventilation.Key ResponsibilitiesMechanical VentilationInitiate, monitor, and adjust invasive/non-invasive ventilators.Implement lung-protective strategies and weaning protocols.Troubleshoot ventilator alarms and patient-ventilator asynchrony.Airway ManagementAssist with intubation, extubation, tracheostomy care, and bronchoscopy.Perform suctioning, humidification, and secretion clearance.Diagnostics & MonitoringObtain and interpret ABGs/VBGs, capnography, and oxygenation indices.Document ventilator settings and patient responses accurately.TherapiesAdminister oxygen therapy, specialty gases (e.g., nitric oxide), aerosolized medications.Support prone positioning and ARDS protocols.Emergency ResponseRespond to rapid response and code events; provide advanced airway and ventilation support.Assist in safe transport of ventilated patients.ECMO ResponsibilitiesAssist in initiation, monitoring, and troubleshooting of ECMO circuits under perfusionist and physician supervision.Adjust sweep gas flow and FiO settings as directed.Monitor ABGs and collaborate on anticoagulation management.Respond to ECMO emergencies (e.g., circuit clotting, pump failure) per protocol.Maintain ECMO equipment readiness and participate in competency drills.Document ECMO parameters and communicate changes promptly to the team.Equipment & SafetyMaintain and calibrate ventilators, HFNC, NIV devices, and ECMO-related equipment.Adhere to infection control and safety standards.Collaboration & EducationParticipate in ICU rounds; provide respiratory care recommendations.Educate patients/families on respiratory care and post-ICU strategies.Engage in quality improvement and protocol development.

Required Qualifications

Education: Associates degree in Respiratory Therapy (Bachelors preferred).Credentials: NBRC CRT required; RRT strongly preferred.Certifications: BLS, ACLS (PALS/NRP if applicable).

Preferred Qualifications

RRT-ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialty).ECMO experience or certification.1-2 years ICU respiratory care experience.